At a glance
Channel Islands National Park encompasses five remarkable islands and their ocean environment, preserving and protecting a wealth of natural and cultural resources. Isolation over thousands of years has created unique animals, plants, and archeological resources found nowhere else on Earth and helped preserve a place where visitors can experience coastal southern California as it once was.
Things to do: Astronomy · Stargazing · Boating · Motorized Boating · Sailing · Boat Tour · Camping · Backcountry Camping · Canoe or Kayak Camping · Group Camping · Compass and GPS · Orienteering · Fishing · Saltwater Fishing
ParkAtlas, maintained by Stellaroos, combines its park and trail dataset with public information from the National Park Service. NPS data snapshot retrieved . Fees, access, and conditions can change; verify current details with NPS before traveling.
Popular trails
Curated routes with approximate round-trip distance. Tap one to log it in the app.In the app, tap one to log it.
Camping
Approximately 60 campsites across the park's campgrounds. Reservations are strongly recommended in peak season (June – October).
Best time to visit
Peak season: June – October. The park is open year-round, though some roads and facilities close or run reduced hours in winter.
In general, the islands have a Mediterranean climate year-round. Temperatures are relatively stable, with highs averaging in the mid-60s (°F) and lows in the low-50s. However, there are seasonal differences that visitors should take into consideration when visiting the park. In addition, visitors also should be aware that ocean and weather conditions vary considerably from day-to-day and island-to-island.
Pack for Channel Islands
Four things worth having for wind, spray, and wet rock. From the full gear list; links support ParkAtlas.
Marmot PreCip rain shell
Afternoon thunderstorms are a feature of the mountain West, not a bug.
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Salomon Speedcross trail runners
Grippy on slickrock and mud, light enough to forget about. I hike in these more than boots.
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Darn Tough ultralight socks
No blisters, no smell, and a lifetime guarantee they actually honor.
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Anker portable charger
Offline maps and photos eat batteries faster than you'd think.
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Entrance fees
Entry is Free.
Getting there
Nearest city: Ventura, CA. Park center: 34.010°, -119.420°.
While the mainland visitor center in Ventura is readily accessible by car or public transportation, the islands are only accessible by park concessionaire boats and planes or private boat. Advanced planning is highly recommended.
Coming from a big city? See every park near Los Angeles or San Diego.
Common questions
How much does it cost to visit Channel Islands National Park?
Entry is Free. An America the Beautiful annual pass covers entrance fees at every national park.
When is the best time to visit Channel Islands?
Peak season is June – October. The park is open year-round, with some roads and facilities on reduced winter schedules. In general, the islands have a Mediterranean climate year-round. Temperatures are relatively stable, with highs averaging in the mid-60s (°F) and lows in the low-50s. However, there are seasonal differences that visitors should take into consideration when visiting the park. In addition, visitors also should be aware that ocean and weather conditions vary considerably from day-to-day and island-to-island.
Can you camp in Channel Islands National Park?
Yes — about 60 campsites across the park's campgrounds. Reserve ahead in peak season.
What is the closest city to Channel Islands National Park?
Ventura, CA is the nearest major city. While the mainland visitor center in Ventura is readily accessible by car or public transportation, the islands are only accessible by park concessionaire boats and planes or private boat. Advanced planning is highly recommended.
What are the best hikes in Channel Islands?
Popular trails include Cavern Point Loop (2.3 mi), Potato Harbor Trail (4.5 mi), Scorpion Canyon Loop (6.5 mi), Pelican Bay Trail (2.2 mi). The park has roughly 35 named trails.
Plan your trip
The practical bits, so more of the weekend goes to the trail.